28th ASCOJA Conference in Bangkok (22–25 Oct 2025)

JUGAS was proud to send a 16-member delegation to the 28th ASCOJA Conference, hosted by our sister chapter, the Old Japan Students' Association, Thailand (OJSAT). We joined more than 250 Japan alumni and guests from other ASCOJA Chapters and Japan, coming together in Bangkok for four days of reunion, learning, and meaningful cross-cultural exchange.

JUGAS' Speaker Contribution

Experts from all Chapters presented papers under the theme "Strengthening ASEAN–Japan Human Capital through HRD and HRC", underscoring ASCOJA's commitment to nurturing talent and knowledge across the region.

We were especially honoured to have Dr Ong Eng Hong, Director of the Design Research Team at DesignZ, SUTD, deliver an insightful presentation titled "Be a Winner in the Era of AI", examining AI's impact and strategies for sustaining human employability. The paper was co-authored with our distinguished member, Professor Chong Tow Chong, University Professor and Director of Temasek Lab, SUTD. It was very warmly received by the audience, even though Professor Chong was unable to attend in person.

Other Highlights

The JUGAS delegation also journeyed through Ayutthaya, Thailand's ancient capital and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The dinners deepened friendships and mutual understanding among our fellow moto-nihon-ryugakusei across ASEAN. The event was graced by His Excellency Mr Otaka Masato, Japanese Ambassador to Thailand, as well as Her Excellency Ms Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, former Minister of Tourism and Sports of Thailand, and Her Excellency Ms Okano Yukiko, Assistant Minister and Director-General for Cultural Affairs, MOFA Japan.

A Meaningful Journey

We hope that all members and families who joined this year's delegation found the experience enriching, memorable, and inspiring. JUGAS looks forward to welcoming even more members to this gathering as we continue strengthening the bonds within the ASCOJA community.

See you at the next ASCOJA Conference!